ANZAC day celebrations around NZ
Anzac Day is being commemorated around the country this morning, with thousands attending dawn services and parades.
Prime Minster John Key delivered an Anzac Day message thanking not only those who defended New Zealand in the past, but also those in service now.
"This is a time where we look back at the bravery of so many men and women who have defended freedom and liberty," he said.
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"And we also pay tribute to those who are currently serving New Zealand in places all across the world."
Labour Leader David Shearer also paid tribute to Kiwi soldiers, asking people to remember those who lost their lives defending New Zealand.
"Their courage is an inspiration to us all," Shearer said.
He made special mention of the New Zealand soldiers killed while serving in Afghanistan.
"Their contribution and all those who served will never be forgotten by the Afghan people whose lives have been touched by their service and dedication."
Auckland Mayor Len Brown told the dawn service at Auckland's War Memorial Museum the country would "always remember the ten New Zealanders who made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom in that troubled, far off land".
Brown also spoke of "the bond forged between ourselves and our nearest and closest neighbour and friend, Australia".
"The Great War established a sense of nationhood, togetherness and independence that echoes down through the ages," he said.
Brown's speech was followed by the singing of both countries' national anthems.
At the close of the ceremony those gathered burst into applause as veterans marched past.
Huge crowds gathered for the Auckland service, although rain meant fewer people turned out than last year.
Services were also held at the Cenotaph in Hamilton, Cranmer Square in Christchurch and Queens Garden in Dunedin.
A ONE News reporter is reporting thousands had gathered at Cranmer Square.
The master of ceremonies at the Christchurch service, Paul O'Connor, acknowledged the 2721 Kiwi soldiers who died at Gallipoli and asked those gathered to also remember the Defence Force personnel who recently left Afghanistan.
A dawn service will be held in Afghanistan for former New Zealand soldiers still working in the country to remember the fallen.